India produced a commanding all-round performance to beat Sri Lanka by 124 runs in the second semi-final of the Asian Games 2026 at Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin, on Thursday. The victory booked India’s place in the gold-medal match against Pakistan.
Ishan Kishan anchors India before bowlers run riot
Asked to bat first, India recovered from a few early setbacks to post a formidable 169/7 in 20 overs. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi provided the initial impetus with a blistering 38 off 21 balls, smashing six fours and two sixes. Abhishek Sharma added seven from three balls before falling soon after.
After India slipped to 87/4, Ishan Kishan took control of the innings. The left-hander remained unbeaten on a superb 80 off 46 balls, striking four fours and five sixes at a strike rate of 173.91. Captain Shreyas Iyer contributed 13, while Axar Patel made eight. Washington Sundar provided a late boost with an unbeaten seven off three balls as India finished strongly.
Sri Lanka’s chase, however, collapsed almost immediately. Jasprit Bumrah struck twice in the opening over, removing Sineth Jayawardena and Sohan de Livera for ducks. A run-out followed, and Axar Patel then claimed two wickets as Sri Lanka slumped to 18/5.
The wickets continued to tumble, with Nuwanidu Fernando’s 15 the only significant contribution from the Sri Lankan batting line-up. Abhishek Sharma also picked up two wickets, while India’s sharp fielding added further pressure.
Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for just 45 in 9.5 overs, handing India a massive 124-run victory. Bumrah, Axar and Abhishek finished with two wickets apiece. India will now face Pakistan in the Asian Games gold-medal final on October 3.
Brief scores: India 169/7 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 80*, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 38; Sahan Arachchige 2-28, Tharindu Ratnayake 2-32) beat Sri Lanka 45 all out in 9.5 overs (Jasprit Bumrah 2-7, Axar Patel 2-8, Abhishek Sharma 2-2)
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